The popularity of cryptocurrencies continues to rise, and US presidential candidates increasingly try to appeal to the growing number of crypto-savvy voters. With millions of Americans now investing in digital assets, the political landscape is shifting to accommodate this new wave of interest. <\/strong><\/p>\n

As the 2024 US presidential election approaches, various candidates have shared their views and actions on digital assets and blockchain technology.<\/p>\n

The Rise of Crypto Voters in America<\/h2>\n
GMI PAC, a crypto-focused political action committee, was established in January 2022. Its name, \u201cGMI,\u201d stands for the popular crypto slang \u201cgonna make it.\u201d As part of its efforts to gauge the significance of crypto to voters in the US, the PAC commissioned a poll.<\/p>\n
The poll\u2019s findings reveal that 44% of US voters own or consider owning digital assets. This suggests that the electorate is beginning to take an interest in crypto policy issues. Of these voters, 17% already own crypto, making them a highly competitive group that both Democrats and Republicans have been targeting in recent elections.<\/p>\n
The core group of crypto voters primarily consists of young men under the age of 55, representing 58%. Furthermore, one-third of crypto-owning voters are people of color. <\/p>\n
Interestingly, the poll found that crypto voters do not overwhelmingly lean toward one political party. This indicates that both Democrats and Republicans have an opportunity to win their support.<\/p>\n
Cryptocurrency ownership spans the political spectrum, with 18% of Democrats, 16% of independents, and 16% of Republicans currently owning digital assets. As such, presidential candidates cannot afford to ignore this significant voting bloc.<\/p>\n
Presidential Candidates Courting Crypto Voters in High-Stakes Race<\/h2>\n
Donald Trump<\/h3>\n
Former President Donald Trump was initially skeptical of cryptocurrencies, expressing concerns about their volatility, potential for facilitating illegal activities, and competition with the US dollar. In 2019, Trump claimed he was \u201cnot a fan\u201d of Bitcoin and other cryptos and criticized Facebook\u2019s Libra project.<\/p>\n
\n
\u201cI am not a fan of Bitcoin and other Cryptocurrencies, which are not money, and whose value is highly volatile and based on thin air. Unregulated Crypto Assets can facilitate unlawful behavior, including drug trade and other illegal activity,\u201d said Trump.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n
Despite his earlier reservations, Trump has recently changed his heart toward crypto. In December 2022, the former president announced the launch of his own NFT collection. This shift in attitude suggests that Trump has become more open to the potential benefits of digital assets and blockchain technology.<\/p>\n
\n<\/figure>\n
Trump\u2019s entry into the NFT space indicates his support for crypto innovation and the growing importance of digital assets in the global economy. His involvement in the industry could potentially influence his future policy positions and encourage a more favorable stance.<\/p>\n
While Trump has not explicitly discussed his position on crypto regulation, his past statements regarding the risks associated with digital assets suggest that he is likely to support measures aimed at protecting consumers and investors and addressing potential illegal activities facilitated by crypto.<\/p>\n
Ron DeSantis<\/h3>\n
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has proactively created a crypto-friendly environment in his state. In June 2021, he signed a bill that established a regulatory framework for digital currencies, making Florida one of the most crypto-friendly states in the US.<\/p>\n
DeSantis sees the potential for blockchain technology to revolutionize various sectors, including finance, supply chain management, and healthcare. He supports adopting blockchain solutions nationwide and has encouraged businesses to explore its potential applications while condemning the idea of a Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC).<\/p>\n
\n
\u201cI think what the danger of the digital currency is that, one, they want to make that the sole currency, they want to get rid of crypto. They don\u2019t like crypto because they can\u2019t control crypto. So they want to put everything in a central bank digital currency,\u201d said DeSantis.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n
\n
\n
\n
JUST IN: DeSantis vows to outlaw CBDC, resist federal government if unilaterally authorized by Federal Reserve or Treasury<\/p>\n
“They want to get rid of crypto [\u2026] In Florida, we'll have a prohibition against [CBDC to make sure] we don't have a financial surveillance state.” pic.twitter.com\/Z8aLF6GR9S<\/p>\n
\u2014 Florida\u2019s Voice (@FLVoiceNews) May 2, 2023<\/p><\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n<\/figure>\n
Under DeSantis\u2019s leadership, Florida has attracted numerous cryptocurrency and blockchain companies, contributing to the state\u2019s economic growth and creating new job opportunities. He has positioned Florida as an innovation hub, drawing in entrepreneurs and startups nationwide.<\/p>\n
DeSantis recognizes the importance of educating the public about crypto and its underlying technology. He also supports initiatives to increase awareness and understanding of digital assets and their potential impact on society and the economy.<\/p>\n
Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.<\/h3>\n
Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., has shown a keen interest in blockchain technology. Especially for its potential applications in various sectors, including environmental conservation. Kennedy is a strong proponent of decentralization and believes blockchain technology can play a role in empowering individuals by curbing reliance on centralized institutions. <\/p>\n
He has urged the government to promote the development of decentralized solutions and adopt a regulatory approach that fosters innovation and protects consumers.<\/p>\n
\n
\u201cCryptocurrencies, led by Bitcoin, along with other crypto technologies, are a major innovation engine. It is a mistake for the US government to hobble the industry and drive innovation elsewhere. Biden\u2019s proposed 30% tax on cryptocurrency mining is a bad idea,\u201d said Kennedy. <\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n
The Democratic White House contender has voiced concerns over the environmental impact of crypto mining. Particularly regarding the high energy consumption associated with proof-of-work algorithms. He has called for adopting renewable energy sources to power crypto mining operations. The goal is to reduce their carbon footprint and support sustainable development.<\/p>\n
\n
\u201cYes, energy use is a concern (though somewhat overstated), but Bitcoin mining uses about the same as video games and no one is calling for a ban on those. The environmental argument is a selective pretext to suppress anything that threatens elite power structures,\u201d affirmed Kennedy.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n